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Autumn spiced pear cobbler topped with a golden crust and fresh pears

Autumn Spice Pear Cobbler

A delightful dessert combining ripe pears with aromatic spices, perfect for fall gatherings and cozy evenings.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Calories: 220

Ingredients
  

For the Pear Filling
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter Adds richness to the filling.
  • 4 medium pears Peeled and chopped into approximately 1/2-inch pieces.
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar Enhances the natural sweetness of the pears.
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour Helps thicken the pear filling.
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon Adds a warm and sweet aroma.
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt Balances the sweetness.
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract Enhances the pear flavor.
For the Cobbler Topping
  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour Essential for the cobbler topping.
  • 1/2 cup firmly packed light brown sugar Adds a deep, caramel-like flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder Vital for achieving a light topping.
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon Enhances the autumn flavor profile.
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom Introduces subtle spice.
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger Adds a hint of warmth.
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground allspice Enhances the overall spice blend.
  • 1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg Imparts a classic fall flavor.
  • Pinch salt Enhances the overall taste.
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter (cold, cut into 1/2-inch cubes) Creates a flaky texture.
  • 1/4 cup milk Binds the topping together.
  • sanding sugar Optional, for a sparkling finish.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Melt 3 tablespoons of unsalted butter in a skillet over medium heat.
  3. Add the chopped pears, granulated sugar, 1/4 cup flour, 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon, and salt to the skillet. Stir until well mixed.
  4. Cook the mixture, stirring frequently, until the sugar dissolves and it becomes bubbly, about 2 to 3 minutes.
  5. Remove from heat and stir in 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract.
  6. Transfer the filling into a 1-quart baking dish.
Making the Topping
  1. In a mixing bowl, combine 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup brown sugar, baking powder, 1 teaspoon cinnamon, cardamom, ginger, allspice, nutmeg, and a pinch of salt.
  2. Add the cold butter cubes and mix until it resembles small peas.
  3. Gradually mix in the milk, stopping as soon as the dough comes together.
  4. Drop tablespoonfuls of dough over the pear filling.
  5. Sprinkle with sanding sugar if desired.
Baking
  1. Place the baking dish on a lined, rimmed baking sheet to catch any potential spills.
  2. Bake for about 30 to 35 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
Serving
  1. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Notes

Use ripe pears for best flavor. Avoid overmixing the topping for light texture. Experiment with spices as desired.